Activity+4

=Activity 4: Online Collaborative Issues =

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The concept that I choose to focus my presentation on was the process for developing effective collaborative environments. Although the process is best suited for the onset of a course, an instructor could implement many of the suggestions at any point in the course. The course of action is linked directly to Bender’s (2003) ‘Means of Engagement’ (p. 47). I choose this particular methodology because it is organized and clearly defined. Just as a traditional classroom teacher sets the rules and expectations at the onset of the course, the online instructor should be no different. The difference, however, falls within the ability for the instructor to form a personal connection. In a traditional classroom there is face-to-face connectivity as well as simple gestures such as shaking a hand and eye-contact. The online instructor must develop a personal connection with the students and create an environment which employs connectivity between learners. As the presentation identifies, through simple engaging activities the instructor can develop a solid foundation for the remainder of the course.

It is important to understand that an online instructor may be a dynamic traditional classroom teacher but struggle in the e-classroom due to a lack of formal training for online instruction. It is also important to understand that online instruction requires a similar, yet distinctively different skill set as compared to a traditional classroom. Through the process that is outlined in the presentation, educators are given a descriptive snapshot through each benchmark for developing effective communication and collaboration in an e-classroom. Regardless of an instructor’s technological background, the presentation clearly identifies a basic road map for success.

I enjoyed creating this presentation. I am very comfortable utilizing PowerPoint as a medium for disseminating information. I selected this format because it is aesthetically simple. I had initially thought about utilizing Prezi to create the presentation but upon analyzing the intended audience I felt the presentation needed to be simple to read, understand, and reflect upon. I feel that if I had used Prezi, in conjunction with complex concepts and abstract ideas, it may have lead my audience to an information overload. I purposely limited the number of words on each slide and included clipart to reduce anxiety in the audience. Many presentations geared towards developing technological literacy skills create apprehension in learners. Limiting the visible content greatly reduces uneasiness. References Bender, T. (2003). //Discussion-based online teaching to enhance student learning//. Sterling, VI: Stylus Publishing, LLC.